Undergraduate Catalog 2023-2024

BIOL - Biology

BIOL 0001 First Year Academic Seminar

(1-0-1) To introduce new majors to the program requirements in biology. To provide guidance on what it will take to be a successful student in the department, and to introduce students to the multiple avenues available in the department for students to interact with faculty.

1

BIOL 1100 Biological Processes

(3-0-3) AREA D FOR NON-SCIENCE MAJORS. A survey of basic principles of life as reflected in the structure and physiology of cells and organisms. This course does not earn credit toward the degree program in biology.

3

BIOL 1100L Biological Processes Lab

(0-2-1) AREA D FOR NON-SCIENCE MAJORS. Laboratory course to accompany BIOL 1100. Additional laboratory fee required; see semester course schedule for amount. This course does not earn credit toward the degree program in biology.

1

BIOL 1107 Principles of Biology I

(3-0-3) AREA D FOR SCIENCE MAJORS. This course covers the general principles of biology, including biomolecules, cell structure and function, and bioenergetics. It is expected to prepare them for further courses in the Biological and Environmental Sciences Department. This course earns credit toward the degree programs in biology and environmental science.

3

BIOL 1107L Principles of Biology I Lab

(0-2-1) Laboratory course to accompany BIOL 1107. This course fulfills an Area D requirement for Science and Non-Science majors. Additional laboratory fee required; see semester course schedule for amount. This is a HOPE and Zell Miller STEM course. This course earns credit toward the degree programs in biology and environmental science.

1

BIOL 1108 Principles of Biology II

(3-0-3) The investigation of how evolution has led to the diversity of life forms we see today. Emphasis will be placed upon their systematic groupings as well as their morphology, physiology, life histories and ecology. This course earns credit toward the degree programs in biology and environmental science.

3

BIOL 1108L Principles of Biology II Lab

(0-2-1) Laboratory course to accompany BIOL 1108. Additional laboratory fee required; see semester course schedule for amount. This is a HOPE and Zell Miller STEM course. This course earns credit toward the degree programs in biology and environmental science.

1

BIOL 1120 Biodiversity

(3-0-3) AREA D FOR NON-SCIENCE MAJORS. Survey of the basic principles of life as reflected in reproductive physiology, heredity, evolution, behavior, and ecology. This course does not earn credit toward the degree program in biology.

3

BIOL 1120L Biodiversity Lab

(0-2-1) AREA D FOR NON-SCIENCE MAJORS. Laboratory course to accompany BIOL 1120. Additional laboratory fee required; see semester course schedule for amount. This course does not earn credit toward the degree program in biology.

1

BIOL 2100 Genetics

(3-2-4) Prerequisites: BIOL 1107 and BIOL 1107L, both with a grade of C or higher. A study of inheritance, including Mendelian genetics, chromosomal inheritance patterns, DNA structure and gene expression, and population genetics. The lab will consist of modeling activities, solving problem sets and some experimental molecular genetics techniques.Additional laboratory fee required; see semester course schedule for amount. This is a HOPE and Zell Miller STEM course.

4

BIOL 2160 Human Anatomy & Physiology I

(3-2-4) Prerequisite: Grade of C or higher in BIOL 1100 and BIOL 1100L, or BIOL 1107 and BIOL 1107L, or CHEM 1151 and CHEM 1151L, or CHEM 1151K. The structure, functions, and dysfunctions of cells, tissues, and the integumentary, skeletal, muscular, and nervous systems, primarily for study in the health professions. Additional laboratory fee required; see semester course schedule for amount. This is a HOPE and Zell Miller STEM course.

4

BIOL 2170 Human Anatomy & Physiology II

(3-2-4) Prerequisite: BIOL 2160 with a grade of C or better. A continuation of BIOL 2160 covering the endocrine, circulatory, lymphatic, immune, respiratory, urinary, digestive, and reproductive systems. Additional laboratory fee required; see semester course schedule for amount. This is a HOPE and Zell Miller STEM course.

4

BIOL 2180 Allied Health Microbiology

(3-2-4) Pre-requisite: BIOL 1100 and 1100 lab, or BIOL 1107 and 1107 lab, or CHEM 1151 and 1151 lab, or CHEM 1151K with a grade of C or better. Designed to give a general knowledge of microorganisms and their relation to human welfare with respect to both pathology and transmission of disease. Additional laboratory fee required; see semester course schedule for amount. This is a HOPE and Zell Miller STEM course.

1-4

BIOL 2251K Anatomy & Physiology I

(3-2-4) Prerequisite: Grade of C or higher in BIOL 1100 and BIOL 1100L, or BIOL 1107 and BIOL 1107L, or CHEM 1151 and CHEM 1151L, or CHEM 1151K. This integrated lecture and laboratory course is the first course in a two-semester sequence designed to explore the biological and chemical processes underlying the structure and function of the human body at the cellular, tissue, organ, and whole-body level. Topics to be covered include, but are not limited to, biological chemistry; cellular structure and function; tissues; and the integumentary, skeletal, muscular, and nervous systems. This course includes laboratory exercises that supplement the material covered in lectures. This course is designed primarily for non-biology majors, especially those pursuing majors in nursing and the allied health professions. Additional laboratory fee required; see semester course schedule for amount. This is a HOPE and Zell Miller STEM course.

4

BIOL 2252K Anatomy & Physiology II

(3-2-4) Prerequisite: BIOL 2160 with a grade of C or better. This integrated lecture and laboratory course is the second course in a two-semester sequence designed to explore the biological and chemical processes underlying the structure and function of the human body at the cellular, tissue, organ, and whole-body level. Topics to be covered include, but are not limited to, the cardiovascular, endocrine, lymphatic and immune, respiratory, digestive, urinary, and reproductive systems. Metabolism and fluid, electrolyte, and acid-base balance will also be covered. This course includes laboratory exercises that supplement the material covered in lectures. This course is designed primarily for non-biology majors, especially those pursuing majors in nursing and the allied health professions. Additional laboratory fee required; see semester course schedule for amount. This is a HOPE and Zell Miller STEM course.

4

BIOL 2260K Foundations of Microbiology

(3-2-4) Prerequisite: BIOL 1100 and 1100L, or BIOL 1107 and 1107L, or CHEM 1151 and 1151L, or CHEM 1151K with a grade of C or better. This integrated lecture and laboratory course provides an introduction to microbiology. This course introduces the student to the diversity and classification of medically significant microorganisms, their modes of pathogenesis and transmission, and the infectious diseases they cause. Topics to be covered include, but are not limited to, microbial cell biology and genetics; major classes of disease-causing microorganisms; host immune response; microbial control; aseptic technique; disinfection; and isolation, culture, staining, and identification of microorganisms. Select laboratory exercises will provide training in the basic laboratory techniques for culture and identification of microbes. This course is designed primarily for non-biology majors, especially those pursuing majors in nursing and the allied health professions. Additional laboratory fee required; see semester course schedule for amount. This is a HOPE and Zell Miller STEM course.

4

BIOL 2800 Ecology

(3-2-4) Prerequisites: BIOL 1107, BIOL 1107L, BIOL 1108, and BIOL 1108L, all with a grade of C or higher. The study of the interrelationships of organisms with their physical and biological environment. Topics include population, community, ecosystem, and biosphere levels of organization. Focus on scientific writing and data analysis. Additional laboratory fee required; see semester course schedule for amount.

4

BIOL 2999 Undergraduate Research

(VAR 0-4) Prerequisite: Approval of Instructor. Individual or small group research project in the area of the instructor's expertise. This course is repeatable for credit.

0-4

BIOL 3000 Seminar

(2-0-2) Studies in selected fields of biology and/or environmental science requiring preparation of a scientific paper or papers and at least one oral presentation by each student. Crosslisted as: ENSC 3000.

2

BIOL 3010 Biological & Medical Terminol

(1-0-1) A study of Greek, Latin, and other word origins of biological and medical terms, with the aim of improving insight and confidence in mastering scientific vocabulary.

1

BIOL 3050 Intro to Medical Physiology I

(3-0-3) Junior standing or permission of instructor. The study of normal medical physiology and some common dysfunctions of the human body, and ability to apply this knowledge to collaborative research and solving of clinical case studies including diagnosis, prognosis, treatment options, and social dimensions of health and disease. Covers basic cell and molecular biology and the integumentary, skeletal, muscular, nervous and sensory systems.

3

BIOL 3051 Intro to Medical Physiology II

(3-0-3) Junior standing or permission of instructor. A companion course to BIOL 3050 but may be taken separately or in either order. The study of normal medical physiology and some common dysfunctions of the human body, and ability to apply this knowledge to collaborative research and solving of clinical case studies including diagnosis, prognosis, treatment options, and social dimensions of health and disease. Covers the endocrine, circulatory, lymphatic, immune, respiratory, urinary, digestive and reproductive systems.

3

BIOL 3200 Cellular/Molecular Physiology

(3-0-3) Prerequisite: BIOL 2100 with a grade of C or higher. The study of cells including nutrition, response to the environment, metabolism, growth and reproduction; molecular and biochemical mechanisms emphasized.

3

BIOL 3400 Organismal Physiology

(3-0-3) Prerequisite: BIOL 1107 and BIOL 1107L, both with a grade of C or higher.. Basic principles of plant and animal physiology, emphasizing mechanisms common to all life forms.

3

BIOL 3500 Marine Biology

(3-2-4) Prerequisites: BIOL 1107 and BIOL 1108. An introduction to marine organisms and the chemical, physical and geological features of the environments they inhabit with an emphasis placed on taxonomic diversity, ecological interactions and anthropogenic pressures.

4

BIOL 3700 Evolution

(3-0-3) Prerequisites: BIOL 1107, BIOL 1108, and BIOL 2100, all with a grade of C or higher. This course approaches evolutionary biology as a process, illustrating the interplay between theory, observation, testing and interpretation. The student will be expected to examine and evaluate biological phenomena in light of the evolutionary processes that shaped them.

3

BIOL 3750 Seminar in Medical Culture

(1-0-1) Sophomore standing or permission of instructor. This pre-medical mentorship is an examination of the history and culture of American medical practice, the science and art of being an effective physician, and societal issues in health care access and delivery. Uses books and film discussions, Internet research, collaborative learning, writing, oral presentations, structured debates, clinical case studies, and other means of inquiry and dialog. Enrollment by invitation only.

1

BIOL 3800 GI Science Tech-Landscape Ecol

(2-4-4) Prerequisites: BIOL 2800 or permission of instructor. An introduction to the principles of landscape ecology, emphasizing how spatial heterogeneity and human activities influence ecological systems and the use of geographic Information Science techniques to analyze ecological patterns at the landscape level. Additional laboratory fee required; see semester schedule for amount. Crosslisted as: ENSC 3800.

4

BIOL 3810 Introduction to Botany

(3-2-4) Prerequisites: BIOL 1107 and BIOL 1108. An introduction to the principles of botany, including the biology of the plant cell, plant structure and function, concepts in plant physiology and the life history and evolution of major plant groups.

4

BIOL 3999 Undergraduate Research

(VAR 0-4) Prerequisite: Approval of Instructor. Individual or small group research project in the area of the instructor's expertise. This course is repeatable for credit.

0-4

BIOL 4010 Integrated Life Science

(2-2-3) Prerequisite: Permission of Instructor, PHSC 4010 recommended. A content course clarifying concepts in life science for middle grades teachers. Students acquire a depth of understanding of foundational life science concepts such as unity and biodiversity of life such that they can effectively assist others in learning. Course credit may not count toward B.S. Degree Biology Major Requirements. Additional laboratory fee required; see semester course schedule for amount.

3

BIOL 4110 Animal Development

(3-2-4) Prerequisite: BIOL 3200 with a grade of C or higher. The embryological development of vertebrates. Includes study of relevant biochemistry, germ cell production, fertilization, differentiation, and the origin of organ systems. Additional laboratory fee required; see semester course schedule for amount.

4

BIOL 4120 Endocrinology

(3-0-3) Prerequisite: BIOL 3200. An in-depth study of the mechanisms of hormone secretion and interactions with receptors, specific endocrine tissues and their secretions, assaying methodology, and diseases and dysfunctions that involve the endocrine glands.

3

BIOL 4130 General Pharmacology

(3-0-3) Prerequisites: BIOL 3200. An overview of the interaction of drugs with tissue receptors; topics include the absorption, distribution, metabolism and elimination of drugs.

3

BIOL 4140 Histology

(2-3-4) Prerequisite: BIOL 3400. The microscopic anatomy of vertebrate tissues and organs, with an emphasis on human organ systems. Additional laboratory fee required; see semester course schedule for amount.

4

BIOL 4145 Medical Physiology

Prerequisite: BIOL 3200. The study of structure and function of human organ systems in health and disease.

3

BIOL 4147 Medical Neuroscience

(3-0-3) Prerequisite: BIOL 3200. The study of structural and functional organization of the brain and the spinal cord, and diseases and disorders of the nervous system with an emphasis on human neural organs.

3

BIOL 4150 Immunology

(3-0-3) Prerequisite: BIOL 3200 with a grade of C or higher. The structure and the normal and abnormal function of the vertebrate immune system, including the interactions of the cellular and humoral components.

3

BIOL 4155 Biology of Cancer

(4-0-4) Prerequisite: BIOL 2100 and BIOL 3200 with a grade of C or better are required while additional upper level molecular cellular courses are highly encouraged. This course satisfies the biology major requirement as an upper level course. This course is designed to introduce the mechanistic fundamentals as to how the cancer arises and how this disease should be treated in the future. Emphases are given on understanding fundamental cell signaling aspects of normal vs. abnormal cells as well as understanding of current cancer research directions based on reading and analyzing scientific literature and future perspectives.

4

BIOL 4160 Molecular Virology

(3-0-3) Prerequisite: BIOL 2100. Course provides an overview of the structure and molecular biology of viruses (groups I-VII) and subviral particles known to exist. Major modes of infection of these viral and subviral agents in host organisms and the pathogenesis they cause in their hosts is surveyed.

3

BIOL 4180 Microbiology

(3-2-4) Prerequisites: BIOL 2100 and BIOL 3200. A study of bacteria and viruses. Emphasis on physiologic processes that are peculiar to non-eukaryotic cells and their usefulness as model biological systems. Additional laboratory fee required; see semester course schedule for amount.

4

BIOL 4185 Medical Microbiology

(3-3-4) Prerequisite: BIOL 2100 with a grade of C or higher. This course will focus on mechanisms of microbial pathogenesis and the host response, and the scientific approaches that are used to investigate these processes. Additional laboratory fee required; see semester course schedule for amount.

4

BIOL 4195 Molecular Biology

(3-0-3) Prerequisite: BIOL 2100 wiht a grade of C or higher. An advanced study of the molecular basis of inheritance, with emphasis on selected human genes and disease. DNA structure, replication, transcription and translation will be presented in detail.

3

BIOL 4200 Membrane Physiology

(3-0-3) Prerequisite: BIOL 3200. The cellular biology of membrane components and key processes like membrane transport and membrane trafficking will be examined. An emphasis will be placed on literature supporting this field.

3

BIOL 4205 Yeast Biology

(3-0-3) Prerequisite: BIOL 3200 with a grade of C or higher. The study of yeast as models for the investigation of basic eukaryotic cell biology; genetic, molecular, and biochemical mechanisms and techniques are emphasized.

3

BIOL 4211 Amyloids & Prions

(3-0-3) Prerequisite: BIOL 3200 or BIOL 4351 or CHEM 3510 with a grade of C or above. The biology of amyloids and prions will be examined. A special emphasis will be placed on a global understanding of how science is learned and practiced. Course may be offered as a CAPSTONE.

3

BIOL 4215 Plant Cell Physiology

(3-2-4) Prerequisites: BIOL 3400 and CHEM 1211, or CHEM 2100, or CHEM 1211K, or CHEM 1311 with a grade of C or better. A presentation of the principles of plant physiology through lecture topics, lab demonstrations, and experiments. Additional laboratory fee required; see semester course schedule for amount.

4

BIOL 4220 Molecular Microbial Ecology

(2-2-3) Prerequisite: BIOL 2180 or BIOL 4180 or BIOL 4750. An exploration of the extent of biodiversity in the microbial world and the functions of microorganisms in the global ecosystem. An emphasis will be placed on the detection of bacteria in environmental samples. Current methods used in microbial community assessment including PCR, DNA hybridization, 16S rRNA sequencing and insitu-PCR will be presented. Additional laboratory fee required; see semester course schedule for amount.

3

BIOL 4225 Molecular Ecology

(3-2-4) Prerequisites: BIOL 2100, BIOL 3700, and BIOL 2800. The field of molecular ecology encompasses various sub-disciplines within the biological sciences. At its heart, molecular ecology employs molecular variation in nucleic acid and/or protein data to answer question involving populations and communities of organisms. Given this breadth, the principles learned in molecular ecology are directly applicable to both prokaryotes and eukaryotes, and can be utilized to address questions in nearly any research area.

4

BIOL 4227 Population Genetics

(3-0-3) Prerequisites: BIOL 2100 and BIOL 3700. This course is designed to familiarize students with the field of population genetics, the branch of evolutionary biology concerned with the genetic structure of populations and how it changes through time. In a broad sense, population genetics examines the interaction of basic evolutionary processes in determining the genetic composition and evolutionary trajectories of natural populations. Upon completion of this course students should be able to demonstrate a fundamental understanding of basic population genetic principles.

3

BIOL 4235 Molecular Biotechnique

(1-6-4) Prerequisite: BIOL 2100 with a grade of C or higher. A laboratory-intensive course designed to introduce the student to experimental techniques, instrumentation, and methodology commonly used in the laboratory investigation of molecules and cells. Additional laboratory fee required; see semester course schedule for amount.

4

BIOL 4240 Neurophysiology

(3-0-3) Prerequisite: BIOL 3200. An introduction to the physiology of the vertebrate nervous system, primarily from a cellular point of view.

3

BIOL 4260 Environmental Toxicology

(3-0-3) Prerequisites: CHEM 1211 or CHEM 1211K, and BIOL 2800 or BIOL 3200. This course will provide students with a general understanding of toxicology as related to the environment. Fundamental concepts to be covered include the fate, transport, and biotransformation of toxic compounds; their biological targets and mechanisms; and risk assessment as related to the environmental sustainability. (ENSC 4260 is equivalent to this course).

3

Cross Listed Courses

ENSC 4260

BIOL 4265 Waterborne Pathogens

(4-0-4) Prerequisites: BIOL 2100 or 2800. This course will provide students with a general understanding of waterborne pathogens and their relation to public health. Fundamental concepts to be covered include their ecology, physiology, geography and sources; their routes of transmission, biological targets and disease mechanisms; and methods of prevention and removal. This course is equivalent to ENSC 4265.

4

BIOL 4270 Cell Signaling

(3-0-3) Prerequisite: BIOL 3200 with a grade of C or higher. The signals and signaling pathway components commonly observed in basic cellular mechanisms will be investigated; an emphasis will be placed on how signaling pathways regulate the metabolic, genetic, and developmental mechanisms of higher eukaryotes.

3

BIOL 4300 Human Biology Sex & Drugs

(3-0-3) This course is designed to provide an examination of drugs and drug use, human sexuality and reproduction from a biological perspective. Various historical and social issues related to these topics will also be discussed.

3

BIOL 4305 Yeast Physiology

(3-2-4) Prerequisite: BIOL 3200 with a grade of C or better (or BIOL 2100 with a grade of C or better and permission of instructor). Yeast are examined as an experimental model for the study of eukaryotic cell physiology and as cellular components of the biopharmaceutical, food, and brewing industries. Genetic, molecular, and biochemical mechanisms as well as the practical uses of yeast are emphasized in lab. Additional laboratory fee required; see semester course schedule for amount.

4

BIOL 4310 Bioethics

(3-0-3) Prerequisite: BIOL 2100 with a grade of C or higher. The course will serve as an introduction to a wide array of bioethical dilemmas faced by researchers, physicians, and the general public. There will be a focus on proper construction of moral arguments, logical reasoning, and an exploration of all sides to different issues. In addition, analysis of these topics will occur by using biological and biotechnological knowledge and performing literature-based research.

3

BIOL 4351 Chemical Biology

(3-0-3) Prerequisites: CHEM 3361 and CHEM 3361L (CHEM 3362 and CHEM 3362L are recommended). An introduction to the basic concepts of biological chemistry from the perspectives of structural biology and reaction mechanisms.

3

BIOL 4410 Biological Systematics

(3-2-4) Prerequisite: BIOL 3700. A study of taxonomy and systematics and the reasons why we name biological organisms and what classifications represent. Additional laboratory fee required; see semester course schedule for amount.

4

BIOL 4420 Clinical Parasitology

(3-0-3) Prerequisite: BIOL 3400. Symptomatology, pathogenesis, epidemiology and treatment of the major protozoans, trematodes, cestodes and nematodes that most commonly infect humans.

3

BIOL 4440 Comparative Animal Physiology

(2-4-4) Prerequisite: BIOL 3400. Comparisons of organ function in both invertebrate and vertebrate animals. Interactions with environmental factors and control mechanisms emphasized. Additional laboratory fee required; see semester course schedule for amount.

4

BIOL 4450 Comparative Vertebrate Anatomy

(3-2-4) Prerequisite: BIOL 3700. A study of the gross anatomy, biomechanics, and evolutionary relationships of the chordates. Several types of vertebrates are dissected. Additional laboratory fee required; see semester course schedule for amount.

4

BIOL 4460 General Entomology

(3-2-4) Prerequisite: BIOL 1108. A study of the natural history, morphology, physiology, taxonomy, evolutionary relationships and behavior of insects. Covers the economic and medical importance of insects. Additional laboratory fee required; see semester course schedule for amount.

4

BIOL 4470 Herpetology

(3-2-4) Principles of evolution, classification, structure, distribution, adaptation, and life history of amphibians and reptiles. Laboratory and field work deals with various aspects of Georgia species. Additional laboratory fee required; see semester course schedule for amount.

4

BIOL 4480 Ichthyology

(3-2-4) Prerequisite: BIOL 2800. Taxonomy, morphology, life history, ecology, and distribution of fishes. Laboratory deals with taxonomy and natural history of fishes found in central Georgia. (ENSC 4480 is equivalent to this course). Additional laboratory fee required; see semester course schedule for amount.

4

Cross Listed Courses

ENSC 4480

BIOL 4490 Phycology

(3-2-4) Prerequisite: BIOL 2800 with a grade of C or better. Taxonomy, morphology, life history, ecology, and distribution of algae. Additional laboratory fee required; see semester course schedule for amount.

4

BIOL 4500 Invertebrate Zoology

(3-2-4) Prerequisite: BIOL 1108 or permission of instructor. A study of invertebrate animals covering anatomy, physiology, ecology, taxonomy, evolutionary relationships and behavior. This course is non-repeatable for credit. Additional laboratory fee required; see semester course schedule for amount.

4

BIOL 4530 Mammalogy

(3-2-4) Prerequisite: BIOL 2800 or BIOL 3700. A study of the phylogeny, adaptations, and natural history of mammals worldwide. Additional laboratory fee required; see semester course schedule for amount.

4

BIOL 4540 Ornithology

(3-2-4) Prerequisites: BIOL 1107 and BIOL 1108. An introduction to the scientific study of birds, which includes the fossil record, anatomy, identification, systematics, and biogeography. Additional laboratory fee required; see semester course schedule for amount.

4

BIOL 4580 Morphology & Anatomy of Plants

(2-4-4) A comprehensive survey of the morphology, anatomy, economic importance and evolution of vascular and nonvascular plants. Additional laboratory fee required; see semester course schedule for amount.

4

BIOL 4590 Vertebrate Biomechanics

(3-0-3) Prerequisites: PHYS 1111 and BIOL 3700. An advanced study of the structure and function of the vertebrate musculoskeletal system.

3

BIOL 4610 Vertebrate Zoology

(3-2-4) A study of the classes of vertebrates in relation to taxonomy, life history, population, and evolution. Includes laboratory and field collections emphasizing Georgia vertebrates. Additional laboratory fee required; see semester course schedule for amount.

4

BIOL 4660 Soil Ecology

Prerequisite: BIOL 2800 with a C or better. This course will explore the ecological interactions of soil-dwelling organisms with each other and their physical and chemical environment. Students will gain knowledge of the biology and systematics of soil biota and experience with techniques used to study soil processes mediated by biological activity. This course focuses on organisms in the soil environment, with emphasis on macrobiota and their functional roles in belowground food webs and ecosystem processes. Lab activities will emphasize quantifying soil fauna communities and ecological processes.

4

BIOL 4705 Population & Community Ecology

(3-0-3) Prerequisite: BIOL 2800. An introduction to quantitative, theoretical and applied population and community ecology including population dynamics, species interactions and community structure. Crosslisted as: ENSC 4705.

3

BIOL 4710 Biogeography

(4-0-4) Theories and principles concerning regional patterns of plant and animal distributions. Crosslisted as ENSC 4710 and GEOG 4710.

4

Cross Listed Courses

GEOG 4710, ENSC 4710

BIOL 4715 Oceanography

Prerequisite: BIOL 1108 with a C or better. This course will provide a broad overview of Physical, Chemical, and Geological Oceanography and functions as a complementary course to Marine Biology (BIOL 3500). The purpose of this course is to introduce the student to the main ideas, theories, techniques and accomplishments of the scientific study of the ocean. Although we call our planet "Earth", it truly is a water planet, with oceans covering almost 71 percent of its surface. Water is an absolutely necessary ingredient for the development and sustenance of living organisms, including humans. The oceans have a great deal to tell us about the development of the planet and origin of life forms on it. Students will develop a basic but clear understanding of the physics, chemistry, geology, and biology contributions that make the ocean such a unique environment, influencing all of our daily activities

4

BIOL 4725 Community & Ecosystem Ecology

(2-3-4) Prerequisite: BIOL 2800. The ecological study of community structure, function and the interrelated dynamics. Major communities of Georgia and the major biomes of North America will be studied. Additional laboratory fee required; see semester course schedule for amount.

4

BIOL 4730 Comparative Animal Behavior

Prerequisite: BIOL 3700. The behavior of organisms ranging from bacteria to humans from the standpoint of genetics, evolution, physiology, ecology, and social organization.

3

BIOL 4735 Fire Ecology

Prerequisite: BIOL 2800 with a grade of C or higher. This course will explore the roles that fire plays in natural and managed systems from the individual to ecosystem level, including historical, cultural, economic, ecological, evolutionary, and policy perspectives. Students will learn the principles, techniques, and methods used to apply prescribed fire. Additional laboratory fee required; see semester course schedule for amount.

4

BIOL 4740 Environmental Conservation

(3-0-3) Prerequisite: BIOL 2800. A consideration of major environmental questions of today's world and the ecological aspects relating to the conservation of man's renewable and non-renewable resources. Cross-listed as: ENSC 4740 and GEOG 4740.

3

Cross Listed Courses

GEOG 4740, ENSC 4740

BIOL 4745 Natural History

Prerequisite: BIOL 2800 with a grade of C or higher or instructor permission. Natural History builds understanding of biology through detailed observational study of organisms within their environmental context. Students will learn and apply practical skills for observation and documentation of organisms in the field. Additional laboratory fee required; see semester course schedule for amount.

4

BIOL 4750 Environmental Microbiology

(3-0-3) Prerequisites: BIOL 2800 or BIOL 3200. A study of interaction of microorganisms with their environment. Emphasis on microorganisms of terrestrial and aquatic environments, and environmental determinants that control their distribution, activities, and cross-interactions in these environments. Crosslisted as: ENSC 4750.

3

BIOL 4760 Plant Systematics

(3-2-4) Prerequisites: BIOL 1107 and BIOL 1108. A course using local flora to teach principles of plant systematics. Additional laboratory fee required; see semester course schedule for amount.

4

BIOL 4765 Field Botany

(2-3-4) Prerequisite: BIOL 1108 with a grade of C or better. This course is intended to provide students with a field-oriented, interpretive introduction to botany in the regional outdoors. Emphasis is given to identification, uses, habit, habitat, and communities of flowering plants, in the context of local terrestrial and aquatic environments, while recognizing their global/worldwide distribution.

4

BIOL 4770 Field Ornithology

(2-4-4) Prerequisite: BIOL 2800 or BIOL 3700 or permission of the instructor. An introduction to field techniques for studying birds, e.g., field identification by sight and song, census taking, developing a field study. Crosslisted as: ENSC 4770. Additional laboratory fee required; see semester course schedule for amount.

4

Cross Listed Courses

ENSC 4770

BIOL 4780 Freshwater Biology

(3-2-4) Prerequisite: BIOL 2800. The study of freshwater organisms, their identification, natural history, and environmental relationships. Particular emphasis will be given to lotic systems. Crosslisted as: ENSC 4780. Additional laboratory fee required; see semester course schedule for amount.

4

Cross Listed Courses

ENSC 4780

BIOL 4785 Ecology of Wetland Ecosystems

(3-2-4) Prerequisite: BIOL 2800. This course introduces students to the principles of wetland science and our practices in managing them, with emphasis on the ecosystem perspective. Students will be expected to develop an understanding of physical, chemical, and biological aspects of wetlands including the processes that form wetlands and their associated plant and animal communities and how we manage these ecosystems. Crosslisted as: ENSC 4785. Additional laboratory fee requried; see semester course schedule for amount.

4

BIOL 4795 Aquatic Ecology

(3-2-4) Prerequisite: BIOL 2800. This is an advanced course designed to familiarize students with the ecology of freshwater and coastal ecosystems (both "lotic" and "lentic"). This course will introduce students to field and laboratory techniques, current theory regarding structure and function, important areas of research and applied issues regarding conservation and management of aquatic habitats. The course will consist of a mixture of lectures and group discussions, coupled with field and laboratory exercises. Crosslisted as: ENSC 4795. Additional laboratory fee required; see semester course schedule for amount.

4

BIOL 4800 Plants and People of The World

(3-0-3) Prerequisite: ANTH 1102 or BIOL 1100 or BIOL 1107 or BIOL 1120 or permission of instructor. Critical examination of the role neotropical plant resources have played in the culture, economics, and history of Latin America and the world.

3

Cross Listed Courses

ANTH 4800, IDST 4800

BIOL 4820 Topics in Avian Evolution

(3-0-3) Prerequisite: BIOL 4540. An advanced course in ornithology with varying course topics (to be announced before term, e.g., origin of birds, fossil record of birds, migration, avian anatomy). This course is repeatable for credit.

3

BIOL 4850 Vertebrate Paleontology

(3-2-4) Prerequisite: BIOL 2800 or BIOL 3700 or permission of the instructor. A detailed study of the evolution and phylogenetic relationships of the major groups of vertebrates. Additional laboratory fee required; see semester course schedule for amount.

4

BIOL 4860 Vertebrate Field Techniques

(2-4-4) Prerequisite: BIOL 1108. A survey of field techniques used to sample nongame wildlife to include experimental design, data collection, field notes, and final report writing. Group field project required. (ENSC 4860 is equivalent to this course). Additional laboratory fee required; see semester course schedule for amount.

4

Cross Listed Courses

ENSC 4860

BIOL 4870 Wildlife Management

(3-2-4) Prerequisite: BIOL 2800. Survey of the techniques and methodologies used in wildlife management of game and nongame animals. Field project required. Additional laboratory fee required; see semester course schedule for amount.

4

BIOL 4890 Capstone: Mtds Biodivers Study

(3-2-4) Prerequisite: Senior Standing. A senior level field-intensive course designed to allow the student to draw on knowledge and skills gained from previous courses. The course is designed to allow the student to implement experimental design, instrumentation, sampling techniques, and general methodologies needed to implement and complete a field based research project on a naturally occurring vertebrate population. Also, methods of reporting the results of the research in a manuscript form and orally will be required by the student. This course satisfies the course option for a senior capstone in biology or environmental science.Crosslisted as: ENSC 4890. This course is repeatable for credit. Additional laboratory fee required; see semester course schedule for amount.

4

BIOL 4910 Origins: Scientific Views

(3-0-3) Prerequisites BIOL 3700, Senior Standing. An examination of significant stages in the evolution of life from a scientific perspective working backward in time from the origin of human intelligence to the big bang. This course satisfies the course option for a senior capstone in biology or environmental science.

3

BIOL 4920 Origins: Phil/Poli Controversy

(3-0-3) Prerequisites: Senior standing and either BIOL 3700 or GEOL 1122. A multidisciplinary examination of the creation-evolution controversy from the perspectives of natural history, U.S. history, legislation an constitutional law, theatre and cinema, theology, comparative creation mythology, and the philosophy of science, pseudoscience, and public education. Formal team debates are required at the course conclusion. This course satisfies the requirement for a Senior Capstone in biology or environmental science.

3

BIOL 4940 Independent Study

(VAR 1-4) Independent work arranged by the instructor according to the individual student's preparation, background, and needs. This course is repeatable for credit.

1-4

BIOL 4950 Special Topics

(VAR 1-4) Consideration of topics in which courses are not offered otherwise, but for which there is current need. Subject matter varies. This course is repeatable for credit.

1-4

BIOL 4951 Special Topics w/ Lab

(3-2-4) Consideration of topics in which courses are not offered otherwise, but for which there is current need. Subject matter varies. Additional laboratory fee required; see semester course schedule for amount. This course is repeatable for credit.

4

BIOL 4952 Special Topics Capstone

(3-0-3) Prerequisite: Senior Standing. This course counts towards senior capstone requirement for Biology majors. The goal of a senior capstone is to allow students to bring together their knowledge gained from specific subareas of their majors and other disciplines for the integrative understanding of the science and the global understanding of the world around them. Although each course will have specific prerequisites and requirements, in general writing, primary literature reading and oral communication components will be highly emphasized. This course is repeatable for credit.

3

BIOL 4953 Special Topics Capstone w/Lab

(3-2-4) Prerequisite: Senior Standing. This course counts towards senior capstone requirement for Biology majors. The goal of a senior capstone is to allow students to bring together their knowledge gained from specific subareas of their majors and other disciplines for the integrative understanding of the science and the global understanding of the world around them. Although each course will have specific prerequisites and requirements, in general writing, primary literature reading and oral communication components will be highly emphasized. Additional laboratory fee required; see semester course schedule for amount. This course is repeatable for credit.

4

BIOL 4960 Internship

(VAR 1-6) Prerequisite: Selection for participation in a University-approved Internship program. An individually designed off-campus course involving study, research and/or work in a science position. This course is repeatable for credit.

3-6

BIOL 4961 Internship Capstone

(3-0-3) This course counts towards the senior capstone requirement for Biology majors. The goal of a senior capstone is to allow students to bring together their knowledge gained from specific subareas of their majors and other disciplines for the integrative understanding of the science and the global perspective. Approved internship that allows students to demonstrate broad scientific training and problem solving skills is encouraged. Students are expected to fill out an online form to set up the internship and get approved by the faculty advisor prior to starting of internship. Regular performance report from the onsite supervisor and formal presentation of internship experience are expected. Credit is granted for work conducted in the concurrent semester.

3

BIOL 4980 Study Abroad

(VAR 1-15) See the International Studies section of the catalog for details. This course is repeatable for credit.

1-15

BIOL 4996 Capstone Research

(3-0-3) Prerequisites: a minimum of 1 hour in independent research course BIOL 3999 or BIOL 4999, Senior Standing. This course counts towards the senior capstone requirement for Biology majors. The goal of a senior capstone is to allow students to bring together their knowledge gained from specific subareas of their majors and other disciplines for integrative understanding of the science and the global perspective. Students are expected to have basic understanding of the research topic of their choice based on previous research experience. Writing in appropriate format and formal presentation of research results will be expected. This course is repeatable for credit.

3

BIOL 4999 Undergraduate Research

(VAR 0-4) Prerequisite: Approval of Instructor. Individual or small group research project in the area of the instructor's expertise. This course is repeatable for credit.

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